When Rents Rise But Wages Don't

Renters in smaller metropolitan areas are struggling to deal with the realities of rising rent and stagnant wages. At least wages have increased in high-priced areas.

1 minute read

December 13, 2017, 10:00 AM PST

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Washington

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock

The county of Spokane in Washington exemplifies the regional challenge presented by skyrocketing rental prices.

According to an article by Amy Edelen, the county of Spokane's rental market is putting more and more strain on residents. In Spokane County, half of renters spend over 30 percent of their income on rent according to analysis of U.S. Census data by Apartment List.

By comparison, "Seattle’s share of cost-burdened renters is more than 47 percent – lower than Spokane County – but it’s because rent and incomes both increased rapidly," according to Edelen.

"For smaller metro areas such as Spokane, rents are rising while wages are remaining stagnant," adds Edelen. The article includes a lot more background on the challenges facing Spokane and other areas like it, as well as specifics from the local debate about how to improve the market for renters.

Monday, December 11, 2017 in The Spokesman-Review

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

July 2, 2025 - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog